LDS Emergency Preparedness – The Basics

As economic, financial and physical circumstances seem to deteriorate due to the current world-wide recession, the need to be prepared for future disasters – whether natural or man-made – is evident.

For decades, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided many resources to help families and individuals prepare both financially and physically for their futures, urged on by the Lord’s promise of “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30). Here is some specific counsel on how to prepare for emergencies:

PHYSICAL

·Have a three-month supply of food. This supply should include foods you would normally eat, and should be rotated through regularly so they don’t go bad. If a three-month supply isn’t a possibility right away, start with a one-week supply and build up from there. Buy a few extra canned foods or packages each week until you gradually build up to a three-month supply.

·Have an ample supply of drinking water. In the case of a natural disaster, the public water supply may be contaminated or not available. Keep a supply of bottled water you can rotate through, or store water in larger containers designed to do so.

·Build on your three-month supply. Gradually build up a supply of foods that last a long time, but are not necessarily part of your regular diet – like wheat, rice and beans.

FINANCIAL

·Avoid debt. A significant cause of the current financial crises has been excessive debt and people living without their means. Simply put, you need to spend less money than you make. And while it is acceptable to get into some debt – for education, a modest home, etc. – resolving that debt should be a reasonable and attainable goal.

·Budget your money. It can be dangerous to not know how much money you have coming in or going out, so it’s essential to write down all incomes and expenditures. Once a budget is kept, it’s easy to see where costs can be cut if needed.

·Save your money. Set up a savings account and put in a little bit each month. This financial reserve will build up over time and can be used in case of emergencies.

·Pay your tithes and offerings. The windows of heaven will be opened and there will not be room enough for you to receive all the blessings our Heavenly Father has is store if you’re sure to pay your tithing, give a generous fast offering, and donate financially in other ways – the perpetual education fund, a local charity, etc.

While these steps will assist you in preparation, it’s also essential to pass along these tips to others, especially your family. After years of prosperity, it’s easy for the next generation to get complacent or entitled – assuming the same blessings should come to them because of the success of their forbearers. But by instilling a good work ethic, financial maturity and a dedication to the gospel in our young people, not only will they be able to minimize the impact of the current recession, but create a brighter and more stable future for all to come.